Coupler Assembly for Dispensing Fluid from a Compressed Fluid Source

ABSTRACT

There is provided a coupler assembly for dispensing fluid from a compressed fluid source, the coupler assembly comprising a chamber, an inlet port, the inlet port comprising a releasable member to be connected to a hose originating from a compressed fluid source, the releasable member comprising a valve, the inlet port further comprising a receiving member for receiving the releasable member, the receiving member being in fluid communication with the chamber, an outlet port in fluid communication with the chamber and a fluid control mechanism operatively coupled to the chamber for controlling an amount of fluid dispensed from the inlet port to the outlet port.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a coupler assembly. More specifically,the present invention pertains to a coupler assembly for providing fluidfrom a compressed fluid source.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Paintball has been popular for over two decades. Teams of opposingplayers shoot paint-filled, gelatin paintballs at each other using agas-powered paintball marker, or paintball gun, which istrigger-activated.

Paintball markers are typically powered using compressed gas bottles,typically containing CO₂ or air, wherein the pressure ranges from 1800psi to 4500 psi. Those gas bottles are sometimes placed in a backpackworn by the player and connected to the paintball marker using a remotegas line.

During play, a player may want to switch his gas bottle for a gas bottlecontaining a different gas or the same gas stored at a differentpressure. This allows the player to give different effects andtrajectories to paintballs fired from his paintball marker. As the gasbottle has a limited capacity, the player may also want to refill hisgas bottle to raise the pressure provided to the marker. The player mayfurther want to perform maintenance operations on his paintball marker,such as cleaning paintball debris out of the barrel of the paintballmarker.

All of the operations previously mentioned involve the disconnection ofthe gas bottle from the paintball marker. This operation can behazardous and must be conducted with extreme care. Due to the highpressure present in the gas bottle, a gas bottle disconnected quicklyfrom a paintball marker may be propelled through the air in amissile-like fashion by the pressure from the compressed fluid flowingfreely from the gas bottle, potentially damaging structures and causingbodily harm to players or bystanders.

It will also be appreciated that when a paintball marker is connected togas bottle, the compressed fluid flowing into the paintball marker willcause a build-up of pressure inside the paintball marker. A paintballmay thus still be accidentally fired from the paintball marker evenafter the gas bottle has been disconnected.

Therefore, prior to the disconnection, the pressure of compressed gasbuilt up inside the paintball marker must be relieved. Currently,paintball players are first closing the compressed gas input from thegas bottle, and then activating the trigger of the paintball markerwithout any paintball loaded. Each trigger activation lets out a smallamount of pressure, until the pressure inside the paintball marker isequal to atmospheric pressure.

The player can then safely unhook the gas bottle from the paintballmarker. It will be appreciated that this task is cumbersome and timeconsuming, and may not be undertaken during paintball games where theplay time is limited or key.

During this whole process, the player is also prevented from using hispaintball marker, which renders that situation highly undesirable duringplay.

Previous attempts have been made at solving this problem, namely theinclusion of a coupler between the paintball marker and gas bottle.Examples of such couplers can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 6,260,821, U.S.Pat. No. 6,722,391, U.S. Pat. No. 6,941,938 and US Patent Publication2006/0032647. These references do not address all of theabove-identified problems, either because they do not allow the playerto relieve pressure from the paintball marker at all or because they donot allow quick relief of pressure from the paintball marker.

There is therefore a need for a device that will overcome at least oneof the above identified drawbacks.

Features of the invention will be apparent from review of thedisclosure, drawings and description of the invention below.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is provided a coupler assembly for dispensing fluid from acompressed fluid source, the coupler assembly comprising a chamber, aninlet port, the inlet port comprising a releasable member to beconnected to a hose originating from a compressed fluid source, thereleasable member comprising a valve, the inlet port further comprisinga receiving member for receiving the releasable member, the receivingmember being in fluid communication with the chamber, an outlet port influid communication with the chamber and a fluid control mechanismoperatively coupled to the chamber for controlling an amount of fluiddispensed from the inlet port to the outlet port.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the invention may be readily understood, embodiments ofthe invention are illustrated by way of example in the accompanyingdrawings.

FIG. 1 is a drawing which shows a perspective view of a coupler assemblyfor dispensing fluid from a compressed fluid source in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention, with a fluid-powereddevice and a compressed fluid source connected thereto;

FIG. 2A is a drawing which shows a perspective view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2B is a drawing which shows a top elevation view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2C is a drawing which shows a left side elevation view of thecoupler assembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2D is a drawing which shows a back elevation view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A is a drawing which shows a perspective view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1, wherein the fluid control mechanism, thepressure relief mechanism, the receiving member and the releasablemember have been removed;

FIG. 3B is a drawing which a cross-section view of the coupler assemblyshown in FIG. 3A, taken along line 3B-3B of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a drawing which shows a front exploded view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4B is a drawing which shows a back exploded view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a drawing which shows an cross-section view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2C;

FIG. 6A is a drawing which shows an cross-section view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2C, with thefluid control mechanism in a closed position;

FIG. 6B is a drawing which shows an cross-section view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2C, with thefluid control mechanism in an open position;

FIG. 7A is a drawing which shows an cross-section view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2C, with thepressure relief mechanism in a closed position;

FIG. 7B is a drawing which shows an cross-section view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2C, with thepressure relief mechanism in an open position;

FIG. 7C is a drawing which shows an cross-section view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 7C-7C of FIG. 2D, with thepressure relief mechanism in an open position;

FIG. 8A is a drawing which shows an cross-section view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2C, with acompressed fluid providing hose connected thereto;

FIG. 8B is a drawing which shows an cross-section view of the couplerassembly shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2C, with acompressed fluid providing hose disconnected therefrom;

FIG. 9A is a drawing which shows an cross-section view of the couplerassembly in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2C, with the pressure limitingmechanism in an initial position;

FIG. 9B is a drawing which shows an cross-section view of the couplerassembly in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2C, with the pressure limitingmechanism in an activated position.

Further details of the invention and its advantages will be apparentfrom the detailed description included below.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description of the embodiments, references to theaccompanying drawings are by way of illustration of an example by whichthe invention may be practiced. It will be understood that otherembodiments may be made without departing from the scope of theinvention disclosed.

A coupler assembly 100 will now be described according to one embodimentof the present invention, with references to FIG. 1.

The coupler assembly 100 operatively couples a fluid-powered device 102to a compressed fluid source 104 wherefrom a compressed fluid isprovided.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the compressed fluid source 104comprises a bottle containing compressed CO₂ gas. Alternatively, thecompressed fluid source 104 may comprise a bottle containing compressedair or any other fluid that may comply with the specifications of thefluid-powered device 102 operatively connected to the coupler assembly100.

In yet another embodiment, the compressed fluid source 104 may be adirect fluid line conveying compressed fluid from an industrialcompressor. This embodiment would allow compressed fluid with constantpressure to be delivered to the coupler assembly 100 for an unlimitedamount of time.

Still in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the fluid-powered device102 comprises a paintball marker. In another embodiment, thefluid-powered device 102 may be a pneumatic tool, a hydraulic tool orthe like.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the coupler assembly 100 comprises an inletport 108 to be connected to a hose, also referred to hereinafter as acompressed fluid providing hose 106, originating from the compressedfluid source 104. The compressed fluid providing hose 106 is used toconvey a compressed fluid from the compressed fluid source 104 to thecoupler assembly 100 and comprises an externally threaded inlet portengaging end 170 for securely engaging the inlet port 108, as it willbecome apparent below.

The compressed fluid providing hose 106 further comprises a second,opposite compressed fluid source engaging end 172 adapted to besealingly connected to the compressed fluid source 104.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the inlet port 108 comprises a releasablemember 150 whereto the compressed fluid providing hose 106 is securelyconnected.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the coupler assembly 100 further comprises anoutlet port 114 for delivering compressed fluid to the fluid-powereddevice 102. The outlet port 114 is adapted for engaging a fluid-powereddevice entry port 160 provided with the fluid-powered device 102.

In an alternative embodiment, the outlet port 114 is adapted forengaging a conveying hose conveying compressed fluid from the outletport 114 to the fluid-powered device 102. It will be appreciated by theskilled addressee that this embodiment would enable a user to utilizethe features of the coupler assembly 100 while being at a distance fromthe fluid-powered device.

In an embodiment wherein the fluid-powered device 102 is a paintballmarker, the use of a conveying hose conveying compressed fluid from theoutlet port 114 to the paintball marker coupled with the use of a remotetrigger to activate the shooting of paintballs from the paintball markerwould enable a player to mount the paintball marker at a location and tocontrol it from another remote location.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the coupler assembly 100 further comprises afluid control mechanism 120 for controlling an amount of fluid dispensedfrom the inlet port 108 to the outlet port 1 14.

In a preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the fluid control mechanism120 is operated manually using a fluid control knob 122 having a knurledouter surface to provide an improved grip to a hand of a user operatingthe fluid control mechanism 120. In an alternative embodiment, the fluidcontrol knob 122 does not comprise a knurled outer surface.

In yet another embodiment, the fluid control mechanism 120 does notcomprise a fluid control knob 122. The fluid control mechanism 120 maybe operatively connected to automated actuation means known to theskilled addressee such as an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator, ahydraulic actuator or the like.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the coupler assembly 100 further comprises apressure relief mechanism 124 to selectively evacuate, from said couplerassembly 100, an amount of pressure created by an amount of compressedfluid therein.

In a preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the pressure relief mechanism124 is operated manually using a pressure relief knob 126 having aknurled outer surface to provide an improved grip to a hand of a useroperating the pressure relief mechanism 124. In an alternativeembodiment, the pressure relief knob 126 does not comprise a knurledouter surface.

In yet another embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism 124 does notcomprise a pressure relief knob 126. The pressure relief mechanism 124may be operatively connected to automated actuation means known to theskilled addressee such as an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator, ahydraulic actuator or the like.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the coupler assembly 100 further comprises apressure gauge port 128 to receive a pressure gauge 130 therein. Thepressure gauge 128 enables a visual reading of a measurement of anamount of pressure inside the coupler assembly 100. In an alternativeembodiment, the coupler assembly 100 does not comprise a pressure gaugeport 128 or a pressure gauge 130.

The features of the coupler assembly 100 will now be detailed inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention, with referencesto FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D, 3A and 3B.

Now referring to FIG. 2A, the coupler assembly 100 comprises a hollowcoupling body 200 having a planar front face 202, a planar back face 204parallel to the planar front face 202 and a pair of spaced-apart,outwardly curved left and right faces 206 and 208 extending between theplanar front face 202 and the planar back face 204.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the pressure relief mechanism 124 islocated on the outwardly curved left face 206 of the hollow couplingbody 200 and is horizontally centered thereon.

Still in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the fluid control mechanism120 is located on the outwardly curved right face 208 of the hollowcoupling body 200 and is horizontally centered thereon.

Now referring to FIG. 2D, the hollow coupling body 200 has a planarbottom face 210, a top circular face 212 parallel to the planar bottomface 210 and a top curved face 214 extending from the top circular face212 to the planar front face 202, the planar back face 204, theoutwardly curved left face 206 and the outwardly curved right face 208.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2B, the inlet port 108 is located on thetop curved face 214 between the top circular face 212 and the outwardlycurved right face 208. Still in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, thepressure gauge port 128 is located on the top curved surface 214 betweenthe top circular face 212 and the outwardly curved left face 206.

Now referring to FIG. 2D, the inlet port 108 comprises a receivingmember for receiving the releasable member 150. In this embodiment, thereceiving member comprises an inlet connecting duct 230 sealinglyattached to the hollow coupling body 200. The receiving member furthercomprises an inlet port swivel nut 232 concentrically and slidablymounted on the inlet connecting duct 230 such that the removal of theinlet port swivel nut 232 off of the inlet connecting duct 230 isprevented, as it will become apparent below.

It will be appreciated that the inlet connecting duct 230 is provided asa distinct, detachable part of the coupler assembly 100 to facilitatethe manufacturing of the coupler assembly 100. In another embodiment,the inlet connecting duct 230 may form a single part with the couplerassembly 100.

It will further be appreciated that the inlet connecting duct 230 isalso provided to enable better access to the inlet port 108 to a hand ofa user selectively engaging and disengaging of the compressed fluidproviding hose 106. In yet another embodiment, the inlet port 108 may beprovided without an inlet connecting duct 230 and the compressed fluidproviding hose 106 may directly engage the coupler assembly 100.

Still referring to FIG. 2D, the outlet port 114 comprises a generallycylindrical protrusion extending outwardly and normally to the center ofthe planar bottom face 210. The outlet port 114 further comprises anoutlet port bottom rim 216 parallel to the planar bottom face 210 of thehollow coupling body 200.

The outlet port 114 is further provided with an outlet port externallythreaded portion 240 located on the outer surface of this generallycylindrical protrusion for sealingly engaging the fluid-powered deviceentry port 160 provided with the fluid-powered device 102.

The outlet port 114 is further provided with an outlet portcircumferential groove 242 located below the outlet port externallythreaded portion 240 for receiving an O-ring seal (not shown) therein.The O-ring seal is provided to prevent compressed fluid from leakingalong the outlet port externally threaded portion 240 during thedelivery of compressed fluid from the outlet port 114 to thefluid-powered device 102. In an alternative embodiment, the outlet port114 may not comprise an outlet port circumferential groove 242 or anO-ring seal.

In an alternative embodiment, a second circumferential groove is locatedabove the outlet port externally threaded portion 240 to receive asecond O-ring seal therein, thus providing an improved preventionagainst leaks of compressed fluid along the outlet port externallythreaded portion 240 during the delivery of compressed fluid from theoutlet port 114 to the fluid-powered device 102.

In a preferred embodiment, the hollow coupling body 200 and the outletport 114 define an integral structure. It will be appreciated that thisconfiguration minimizes the probability of leakage of compressed fluidfrom the hollow coupling body 200 and the outlet port 114 during thelifetime of the coupler assembly 100. In an alternative embodiment, theoutlet port 114 may be manufactured as a separate member provided with athreaded portion for engaging the hollow coupling body 200 provided witha corresponding internally threaded portion.

The hollow coupling body 200 may be manufactured from a single block ofrigid material selected from a group comprising aluminum, stainlesssteel, titanium, magnesium, brass, cast iron, PVC, ABS or any othermaterial the skilled addressee may see appropriate for the present useof the invention.

Still in a preferred embodiment, the hollow coupling body 200 and theoutlet port 114 may be manufactured using machining operations known tothe skilled addressee such as milling, turning and tapping. In analternative embodiment, the hollow coupling body 200 may be manufacturedfrom two symmetrical, corresponding halves welded together using weldingtechniques known to the addressee such as tungsten inert gas welding,metal inert gas welding, plasma arc welding or the like.

In yet another embodiment, the hollow coupling body 200 is manufacturedusing casting techniques known to the skilled addressee such as sandcasting, die casting, investment casting or the like.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the location of the inletport 108, the outlet port 114, the fluid control mechanism 120, thepressure relief mechanism 124 and the pressure gauge port 128 on thehollow coupling body 200 may be changed according to aestheticconsiderations. The inlet port 108, the outlet port 114, the fluidcontrol mechanism 120, the pressure relief mechanism 124, and thepressure gauge port 128 are distributed along the top curved face 214,the planar bottom face 210, the outwardly curved left face 206 and theoutwardly curved right face 208 to provide enough clearance to a hand ofa user to operate as well as to facilitate manufacturing using machiningoperations known to the skilled addressee such as milling, turning andtapping.

In an alternative embodiment, the inlet port 108, the outlet port 114,the fluid control mechanism 120, the pressure relief mechanism 124 andthe pressure gauge port 128 may be positioned at another location on thehollow coupling body 200, as long as the ports are interconnected by achamber having the features described below.

Now referring to FIG. 3B, the hollow coupling body 200 further comprisesa chamber 302. The chamber 302 comprises a gauge port communicatingchannel 304 extending inwardly from the pressure gauge port 128 locatedon the top curved face 214 of the hollow coupling body 200. The gaugeport communicating channel 304 is connected by a chamber connectingelbow 342 to an outlet port communicating channel 360 extending normallyand inwardly from the outlet port bottom rim 216 of the outlet port 114located on the planar bottom face 210 of the hollow coupling body 200such that the gauge port communicating channel 304, the chamberconnecting elbow 342 and the outlet port communicating channel 360 arein fluid communication.

Still referring to FIG. 3B, the gauge port communicating channel 304further comprises a gauge port internally threaded portion 306 forreceiving the threaded portion of a pressure gauge 130. This allows forthe removal of the pressure gauge 130 from the pressure gauge port 128for recalibration purposes or to replace the pressure gauge 130 with oneof superior precision.

In an alternative embodiment, the gauge port communicating channel 304may not comprise a gauge port internally threaded portion 306, thepressure gauge 130 being instead sealingly glued to the pressure gaugeport 128 using epoxy glue, acrylic glue or any other sealing compoundthat can provide sealing of the gauge port 128.

In yet another embodiment, the pressure gauge 130 may be welded to thegauge port 128 using welding techniques known to the skilled addresseesuch as tungsten inert gas welding, metal inert gas welding, plasma arcwelding or the like.

Still referring to FIG. 3B, the chamber 302 further comprises a fluidcontrol channel 312 for housing the fluid control mechanism 120. Thefluid control channel 312 extends inwardly and horizontally between theoutwardly curved right face 208 and the gauge port communicating channel304.

The fluid control channel 312 comprises a fluid control mechanismreceiving bore 314 and a fluid control conical end cavity 318 providedas an extension of the fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314, thefluid control conical end cavity 318 and the fluid control mechanismreceiving bore 314 being in fluid communication with one another.

More specifically, the fluid control conical end cavity 318 comprises afluid control conical end cavity inner lateral surface 319 taperinginwardly from the inner end 321 of the fluid control mechanism receivingbore 314 to a fluid control conical end cavity communication hole 320extending from the conical control end cavity 318 to the gauge portcommunicating channel 304, the gauge port communicating channel 304 andthe fluid control channel 312 thus being in fluid communication with oneanother.

The fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314 is provided with a fluidcontrol mechanism receiving bore internally threaded portion 316 forsecuring the fluid control mechanism 120 to the hollow coupling body200, as it will become apparent below.

Still referring to FIG. 3B, the chamber 302 further comprises an inletchannel 322 extending downwardly and inwardly between the inlet port 108located on the top curved face 214 and the fluid control channel 312such that the inlet channel 322 and the fluid control channel 312 are influid communication.

The inlet channel 322 comprises an inlet connecting duct receiving bore324 and an inlet inner conduit 328 provided as an extension of the inletconnecting duct receiving bore 324, the inlet inner conduit 328 and theinlet connecting duct receiving bore 324 being in fluid communicationwith one another.

The inlet connecting duct receiving bore 324 is provided with an inletconnecting duct receiving bore internally threaded portion 326 forsecuring the inlet connecting duct 230 to the hollow coupling body 200,as it will become apparent below.

Still referring to FIG. 3B, the chamber 302 further comprises a pressurerelief channel 330 extending inwardly and between the outwardly curvedleft face 206 and the chamber connecting elbow 342.

The pressure relief channel 324 comprises a pressure relief mechanismreceiving bore 326 and a pressure relief conical end cavity 328 providedas an extension on the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore 326, thepressure relief conical end cavity 318 and the pressure relief mechanismreceiving bore 314 being in fluid communication with one another.

More specifically, the pressure relief conical end cavity 336 comprisesa pressure relief conical end cavity inner lateral surface 337 taperinginwardly from the inner end 339 of the fluid control mechanism receivingbore 314 to a fluid control conical end cavity communication hole 320extending from the conical control end cavity 318 to the gauge portcommunicating channel 304, the gauge port communicating channel 304 andthe fluid control channel 312 thus being in fluid communication with oneanother.

Still referring to FIG. 3B, the chamber 302 further comprises a pressurerelief discharge duct 340 extending inwardly and normally from theplanar back face 204 to the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore332, the pressure relief discharge duct 340 being in fluid communicationwith the pressure relief channel 330.

Additional features of the coupler assembly 100 will now be described inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention, with referencesto FIGS. 4A and 4B.

Now referring to FIG. 4A, the inlet port swivel nut 232 comprises aninternally threaded, open-ended hollow shell 480 closed at its lower endby an inlet port swivel nut narrow portion 482 provided with an inletport swivel nut central hole 484 for concentrically receiving the inletconnecting duct 230 therein. The inlet port swivel nut 232 is furtherprovided for releasably engaging the releasable member 150, as it willbecome apparent below.

In a preferred embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4A, the inlet port swivelnut 232 is provided with a knurled outer surface to provide an improvedgrip to a hand of a user selectively and releasably engaging anddisengaging the releasable member 150. In an alternative embodiment, theinlet port swivel nut 232 is not provided with a knurled outer surface.

Still referring to FIG. 4A, the inlet connecting duct 230 comprises agenerally cylindrical body provided, at a first end, with an inletconnecting duct threaded portion 400 for engaging the inlet connectingduct receiving bore internally threaded portion 326, not shown in FIG.4A.

The inlet connecting duct 230 is further provided, at a second, oppositeend, with an inlet connecting duct bulging portion 408 having a largerdiameter than the inlet port swivel nut narrow portion 482 such that theinlet connecting duct bulging portion 408 may abut the inlet port swivelnut narrow portion 482 when the inlet connecting duct 230 isconcentrically and slidably mounted into the internally threaded swivelend nut 112, preventing further upward movement of the internallythreaded swivel end nut 112 with reference to the inlet connecting duct230.

As best shown in FIG. 4B, the inlet connecting duct 230 furthercomprises an inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 extending upwardly andaxially from the center of the inlet connecting duct bulging portion 408and is provided for engaging the releasable member 150, as it willbecome apparent below.

Turning back to FIG. 4A, the inlet connecting duct 230 is furtherprovided with an inlet connecting duct internal conduit 402 providingfluid communication between the releasable member 150 and the chamber302, not shown in FIG. 4A.

Still referring to FIG. 4B the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 isprovided with an inlet connecting duct end nipple slot 406 extendingperpendicularly on top of the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404. Theinlet connecting duct end nipple slot 406 is in fluid communication withthe inlet connecting duct internal conduit 402.

Now referring to FIG. 5, the releasable member 150 comprises a generallycylindrical releasable member hollow shell 500 provided, at a first end,with a releasable member externally threaded portion 464 for releasablyengaging the inlet connecting duct 230, as it will become apparentbelow.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the releasable member 150further comprises a releasable member internally threaded portion 502for securely engaging a port adaptor 504. In this embodiment, thereleasable member internally threaded portion 502 is adapted forreceiving an NPT ¼″ threaded member therein.

Still in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the port adaptor 504 is used toengage the NPT ¼″ adapted releasable member internally threaded portion502 and receive an NPT ⅛″ threaded portion of the compressed fluidproviding hose 106, not shown in FIG. 5, therein.

In an alternative embodiment, the releasable member 150 does notcomprise a port adaptor 504, the releasable member internally threadedportion 502 being adapted to receive an NPT ⅛″ threaded portion of thecompressed fluid providing hose 106, not shown in FIG. 5, therein.

In yet another embodiment, the releasable member 150 does not comprise aport adaptor 504, the releasable member internally threaded portion 502being adapted to receive another type of threaded portion of thecompressed fluid providing hose 106, not shown in FIG. 5, therein.

Still referring to FIG. 5, the releasable member 150 comprises, at asecond, opposite end, a releasable member externally threaded portion506 for releasably engaging the inlet connecting duct 230, as it willbecome apparent below.

The releasable member 150 further comprises a releasable member centralconduit 508 provided with a releasable member valve 510 for selectivelyenabling or preventing fluid communication between the compressed fluidproviding hose 106, not shown on FIG. 5, and the chamber 302.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the releasable member valve 510comprises a spring-loaded check valve selectively activated by the inletconnecting duct end nipple 404.

In an alternative embodiment, the releasable member valve 510 may be anyanother valve that may be activated by the inlet connecting duct endnipple 404.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the releasable member valve510 enables the disconnection of the releasable member 150 sealinglyattached to the compressed fluid providing hose 106, not shown in FIG.5, without leakage of compressed fluid from the compressed fluidproviding hose 106. Once the releasable member 150 is disengaged fromthe inlet connecting duct 230, the releasable member valve 510 is nolonger activated by the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404, andtherefore moves from an open position to a closed position, preventingleakage of compressed fluid from the compressed fluid providing hose 106through the releasable member central conduit 508.

Referring back to FIG. 4A, the fluid control mechanism 120 comprises afluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 for securing the fluid controlmechanism 120 to the hollow coupling body 200, as it will becomeapparent below.

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 comprises a fluid controlmechanism fastening nut head 414 for sealingly fastening the fluidcontrol mechanism fastening nut 412 to the fluid control mechanismreceiving bore 314, not shown in FIG. 4A, as it will become apparentbelow.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A, the fluid control mechanismfastening nut head 414 has a hexagonal shape to facilitate fasteningusing a tool known to the skilled addressee such as a torque wrench, amonkey wrench or the like.

In an alternative embodiment, the fluid control mechanism fastening nuthead 414 may have a circular shape provided with a knurled outer surfaceto facilitate fastening using a hand of a user.

It will be appreciated that the fluid control mechanism fastening nuthead 414 may have a triangular shape, a square shape, an octagonal shapeor any other geometrical shape the skilled addressee may findappropriate for fastening.

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 further comprises a fluidcontrol mechanism fastening nut central bore 416 for concentricallymounting a fluid control piston 424 therein. More specifically, thefluid control mechanism fastening nut central bore 416 comprises a fluidcontrol mechanism fastening nut internally threaded portion 418 forrotatively engaging the fluid control piston 424 therein and axiallydisplacing the fluid control piston 424 with reference to the fluidcontrol mechanism fastening nut 412, as it will become apparent below.

Still referring to FIG. 4, the fluid control piston 424 comprises afluid control piston externally threaded body 428 for operativelyengaging the fluid control mechanism fastening nut internally threadedportion 418.

The fluid control piston 424 further comprises a fluid control pistonhead 426 having a frusto-conical shape for selectively allowing orpreventing passage of a compressed fluid from the fluid control channel312, not shown in FIG. 4A, to the gauge port communicating channel 304,not shown in FIG. 4A, through the fluid control conical end cavitycommunicating hole 320, not shown in FIG. 4A, as it will become apparentbelow.

More specifically, the fluid control piston head 426 comprises a fluidcontrol piston head external lateral surface 427 tapering from a fluidcontrol piston inner peripheral groove 432 such that the fluid controlpiston head external lateral surface 427 may sealingly mate with thefluid control conical end cavity inner lateral surface 319, not shown inFIG. 4A.

Referring back to FIG. 3B, the skilled addressee will appreciate thatthe fluid control piston head 426, not shown in FIG. 3B, may be nestedinto the fluid control conical end cavity 318 and may act as a plugthereof. It will further be appreciated by the skilled addressee thatsuch positioning of the fluid control piston head 426, not shown in FIG.3B, in the fluid control conical end cavity 318 is intended to preventleakage of compressed fluid from the fluid control channel 312 to thegauge port communicating channel 304 through the fluid control conicalend cavity communicating hole 320.

Now turning back to FIG. 4A, the fluid control piston inner peripheralgroove 432 is used for receiving an O-ring seal 490 therein. The O-ringseal 490 is provided to further prevent leakage of compressed fluid fromthe fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314, not shown in FIG. 4A, tothe fluid control conical end cavity communicating hole 320, not shownin FIG. 4A, through the mating interface of fluid control piston headexternal lateral surface 427 and the fluid control conical end cavityinternal lateral surface 319, not shown in FIG. 4A.

The fluid control piston 424 is further provided with a fluid controlpiston outer peripheral groove 430 located on the fluid control pistonbetween the fluid control piston inner peripheral groove 432 and thefluid control piston externally threaded body 428 for receiving anO-ring seal 492 therein. The O-ring seal 492 is provided to furtherprevent leakage of compressed fluid from the fluid control channel 312,not shown in FIG. 4A.

The fluid control piston 424 is further provided with a fluid controlpiston external abutting rim 434 located between the fluid controlpiston outer peripheral groove 430 and the fluid control pistonexternally threaded body 428, the fluid control piston external abuttingrim 434 facing towards the fluid control piston externally threaded body428. The fluid control piston external abutting rim 434 is provided forabutting a fluid control mechanism fastening nut internal abutting rim422 located on the interior surface of the fluid control mechanismfastening nut 412, as it will become apparent below.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the fluid control pistonexternal abutting rim 434 and the fluid control mechanism fastening nutinternal abutting rim 422 are parallel to one another and perpendicularto the central axis of the fluid control piston 424.

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 further comprises a fluidmechanism fastening nut externally threaded portion 420 for operativelyengaging the fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314, not shown inFIG. 4A.

Still referring to FIG. 4A, the fluid control knob 122 comprises a fluidcontrol knob internally threaded central bore 470 for engaging the fluidcontrol piston externally threaded body 428.

Similarly to the fluid control mechanism 120, the pressure reliefmechanism 124 comprises a pressure release mechanism fastening nut 436for securing the pressure release mechanism 124 to the hollow couplingbody 200, as it will become apparent below.

Still referring to FIG. 4A, the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut436 comprises a pressure relief mechanism fastening nut central bore 440for concentrically mounting a pressure relief piston 448 therein. Morespecifically, the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut central bore440 comprises a pressure relief mechanism fastening nut internallythreaded portion 442 for movably engaging the pressure relief piston 448therein and axially displacing the pressure relief piston 448 withreference to the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436, as it willbecome apparent below.

Still referring to FIG. 4A, the pressure relief piston 448 comprises apressure relief piston externally threaded body 452 for rotativelyengaging the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut internally threadedportion 442.

The pressure relief piston 448 further comprises a pressure reliefpiston head 450 having a frusto-conical shape for selectively allowingor preventing passage of a compressed fluid from the chamber connectingelbow 342, not shown in FIG. 4A, to the pressure relief channel 330, notshown in FIG. 4A, through the pressure relief conical end cavitycommunicating hole 338, not shown in FIG. 4A, as it will become apparentbelow.

More specifically, the pressure relief piston head 450 comprises apressure relief piston head external lateral surface 451 tapering from apressure relief piston inner peripheral groove 456 such that thepressure relief piston head external lateral surface 451 may sealinglymate with the pressure relief conical end cavity inner lateral surface337, not shown in FIG. 4A.

Referring back to FIG. 3B, the skilled addressee will appreciate thatthe pressure relief piston head 450, not shown in FIG. 3B, may be nestedinto the pressure relief conical end cavity 336 and may act as a plugthereof. It will further be appreciated by the skilled addressee thatsuch positioning of the pressure relief piston head 450, not shown inFIG. 3B, in the pressure relief conical end cavity 336 is intended toprevent leakage of compressed fluid from the pressure relief channel 330to the chamber connecting elbow 342 through the pressure relief conicalend cavity communicating hole 338.

Now referring back to FIG. 4A, the pressure relief piston innerperipheral groove 456 is used for receiving an O-ring seal 494 therein.The O-ring seal 494 is provided to further prevent leakage of compressedfluid from the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332 to thepressure relief conical end cavity communicating hole 338, not shown inFIG. 4A, through the mating interface of the pressure relief piston headexternal lateral surface 451 and the pressure relief conical end cavityinner lateral surface 337, not shown in FIG. 4A.

The pressure relief piston 448 is further provided with a pressurerelief piston outer peripheral groove 454 located on the pressure reliefpiston 448 between the pressure relief piston inner peripheral groove456 and the pressure relief piston externally threaded body 452 forreceiving an O-ring seal 496 therein. The O-ring seal 496 is provided tofurther prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the pressure reliefchannel 330, not shown in FIG. 4A.

Still referring to FIG. 4A, the pressure relief piston 448 is furtherprovided with a pressure relief piston external abutting rim 458 locatedbetween the pressure relief piston outer peripheral groove 454 and thepressure relief piston externally threaded body 452, the pressure reliefpiston external abutting rim 458 facing towards the pressure reliefpiston externally threaded body 452. The pressure relief piston externalabutting rim 458 is provided for abutting a pressure relief mechanismfastening nut internal abutting rim, not shown, located on the interiorsurface of the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436, as it willbecome apparent below.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the pressure relief pistonexternal abutting rim 458 and the pressure relief mechanism fasteningnut internal abutting rim, not shown, are parallel to one another andperpendicular to the central axis of the pressure relief piston 448.

The pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436 further comprises afluid mechanism fastening nut externally threaded portion 444 foroperatively engaging the pressure relief mechanism receiving boreinternally threaded portion 334, not shown in FIG. 4A.

Still referring to FIG. 4A, the pressure relief knob 126 comprises apressure relief knob internally threaded central bore 472 for engagingthe pressure relief mechanism externally threaded body 452.

Having described the features of the coupler assembly 100 according toone embodiment of the present invention, its assembly will now bedescribed, with references to FIG. 5.

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 is first axiallypositioned over the fluid control piston 424, the fluid controlmechanism fastening nut head 414 facing away from the fluid controlpiston head 426.

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 is then lowered onto thefluid control piston 424 and the fluid control piston 424 isconcentrically inserted into the fluid control mechanism fastening nutcentral bore 416, the fluid control piston externally threaded body 428operatively engaging the fluid control mechanism fastening nutinternally threaded portion 418.

The fluid control knob 122 is axially positioned over the fluid controlpiston 424 and the fluid control knob internally threaded central bore470 is permanently secured onto the fluid control piston externallythreaded body 428.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the fluid control knob 122 isprevented from further rotating about the fluid control piston 424 onceit has been installed. In one embodiment, the fluid control knobinternally threaded central bore 470 has a smaller diameter than thefluid control piston 424 and the fluid control knob 122 is secured overthe fluid control piston 424 using a process of interference fittingknown to the skilled addressee.

In an alternative embodiment, the fluid control knob 122 is secured overthe fluid control piston 424 using an adhesive compound known to theskilled addressee such as epoxy-based adhesive or any other adhesivecompound the skilled addressee may consider useful and appropriate.

The fluid control mechanism fastening nut 412 is then positioned overthe fluid control mechanism receiving bore 314 and lowered onto thefluid control mechanism receiving bore 314, the fluid control mechanismfastening nut externally threaded portion 420 permanently and sealinglyengaging the fluid control mechanism receiving bore internally threadedportion 316.

In a preferred embodiment, the fluid control mechanism fastening nutexternally threaded portion 420 is further coated with a sealingcompound known to the skilled addressee such as epoxy-based sealant orthe like prior to engagement into the fluid control mechanism receivingbore internally threaded portion 316. The purpose of this coating is tofurther prevent leakage of compressed fluid from the fluid controlmechanism receiving bore 314. In an alternative embodiment, the fluidcontrol mechanism fastening nut externally threaded portion 420 is notcoated with a sealing compound prior to engagement into the fluidcontrol mechanism receiving bore internally threaded portion 316.

It will be appreciated that the fluid control piston 424 may nowselectively be moved axially with reference to the fluid control channel312 from a fully-closed position whereat the pressure relief piston headexternal lateral surface 427 mates with the fluid control conical endcavity inner lateral surface 319 to an open position whereat thepressure relief piston head external lateral surface 427 does not matewith the fluid control conical end cavity inner lateral surface 319. Thefluid control piston 424 is moved axially by rotating the fluid controlknob 122.

The fluid control piston 424 may be moved axially and outwardly untilthe fluid control piston external abutting rim 434 abuts the fluidcontrol mechanism fastening nut internal abutting rim 422, therebypreventing the removal of the fluid control piston 424 from the fluidcontrol mechanism fastening nut 412.

Still referring to FIG. 5, the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut436 is then axially positioned over the pressure relief piston 448, thepressure relief mechanism fastening nut head 438 facing away from thepressure relief piston head 450.

The pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436 is then lowered onto thepressure relief piston 448 and the pressure relief piston 448 isconcentrically inserted into the pressure relief mechanism fastening nutcentral bore 440, the pressure relief piston externally threaded body452 operatively engaging the pressure relief mechanism fastening nutinternally threaded portion 442.

The pressure relief knob 126 is axially positioned over the pressurerelief piston 448 and the pressure relief knob internally threadedcentral bore 472 is permanently secured onto the pressure relief pistonexternally threaded body 452.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the pressure relief knob 126is prevented from further rotating about the pressure relief piston 448once it has been installed. In one embodiment, the pressure relief knobinternally threaded central bore 472 has a smaller diameter than thepressure relief piston 448 and the pressure relief knob 126 is securedover the pressure relief piston 448 using a process of interferencefitting known to the skilled addressee.

In an alternative embodiment, the pressure relief knob 126 is securedover the pressure relief piston 448 using an adhesive compound known tothe skilled addressee such as epoxy-based adhesive or any other adhesivecompound the skilled addressee may consider useful and appropriate.

The pressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436 is then positioned overthe pressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332 and lowered onto thepressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332, the pressure reliefmechanism fastening nut externally threaded portion 444 permanently andsealingly engaging the pressure relief mechanism receiving boreinternally threaded portion 334.

In a preferred embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism fastening nutexternally threaded portion 444 is further coated with a sealingcompound known to the skilled addressee such as epoxy-based sealants orthe like prior to engagement into the pressure relief mechanismreceiving bore internally threaded portion 334. The purpose of thiscoating is to further prevent leakage of compressed fluid from thepressure relief mechanism receiving bore 332. In an alternativeembodiment, the pressure relief mechanism fastening nut externallythreaded portion 444 is not coated with a sealing compound prior toengagement into the pressure relief mechanism receiving bore internallythreaded portion 334.

It will be appreciated that the pressure relief piston 448 may nowselectively be moved axially with reference to the pressure reliefchannel 330 from a fully-closed position whereat the pressure reliefpiston head external lateral surface 451 mates with the pressure reliefconical end cavity inner lateral surface 337 to an opened positionwhereat the pressure relief piston head external lateral surface 451does not mate with the pressure relief conical end cavity inner lateralsurface 337. The pressure relief piston 448 is moved axially by rotatingthe pressure relief knob 126.

The pressure relief piston 448 may be moved axially and outwardly untilthe pressure relief piston external abutting rim 458 abuts the pressurerelief mechanism fastening nut internal abutting rim, not shown, therebypreventing the removal of the pressure relief piston 448 from thepressure relief mechanism fastening nut 436.

Still referring to FIG. 5, the inlet connecting duct 230 is insertedinto the inlet port swivel nut central hole 484 until the inletconnecting duct bulging portion 408 abuts the internally threaded swivelnut narrow portion 482. The inlet connecting duct threaded portion 400then is then sealingly and permanently engaged into the correspondinginlet connecting duct receiving bore internally threaded portion 326 andsecured using a flat-bladed screwdriver engaging the inlet connectingduct end nipple slot 406. The flat-bladed screwdriver is used forproviding an appropriate amount of torque to prevent leakage ofcompressed fluid from the inlet connecting duct receiving bore 324.

In a preferred embodiment, the inlet connecting duct threaded portion400 is further coated with a sealing compound known to the skilledaddressee such as epoxy-based sealants or the like prior to engagementinto the inlet connecting duct receiving bore internally threadedportion 326. The purpose of this coating is to further prevent leakageof compressed fluid from the inlet connecting duct receiving bore 324.In an alternative embodiment, the inlet connecting duct threaded portion400 is not coated with a sealing compound prior to engagement into theinlet connecting duct receiving bore internally threaded portion 326.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the inlet port swivel nut 232is now slidably mounted on the inlet connecting duct 230 and may be slidupwardly until the inlet port swivel nut narrow portion 482 abuts theinlet connecting duct bulging portion 408 and downwardly until the inletport swivel nut narrow portion 482 abuts the hollow coupling body 200.

Still referring to FIG. 5, the compressed fluid providing hose 106,provided with an externally threaded portion, not shown, engages thereleasable member 150. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, thecompressed fluid providing hose 106 permanently and sealingly engagesthe port adaptor 504. In an alternative embodiment, the releasablemember 150 does not comprise a port adaptor 504 and the compressed fluidproviding hose 106 engages sealingly and permanently releasable memberinternally threaded portion 502.

Still referring to FIG. 5, the pressure gauge 130 is concentricallymounted in the pressure gauge port 128. In an embodiment wherein thepressure gauge 130 is provided with an externally threaded portion forengaging the gauge port internally threaded portion 306, the pressuregauge externally threaded portion may be further coated with a temporarysealing compound known to the skilled addressee such as tire sealants orthe like prior to engagement into the gauge port internally threadedportion 306. The purpose of this coating is to further prevent leakageof compressed fluid from the gauge port communicating channel 304 whileallowing selective removal and reinstallation if the pressure gauge 130into the pressure gauge port 128.

In an alternative embodiment, the pressure gauge externally threadedportion may be further coated with a permanent sealing compound known tothe skilled addressee such as epoxy-based sealants or the like prior toengagement into the gauge port internally threaded portion 306. Thepurpose of this coating is to further prevent leakage of compressedfluid the gauge port communicating channel 304 while preventing removalof the pressure gauge 130 from the pressure gauge port 128.

In yet another embodiment, the pressure gauge externally threadedportion is not coated with a sealing compound prior to engagement intothe gauge port internally threaded portion 306.

Still referring to FIG. 5, the outlet port 114 is connected to thefluid-powered device entry port 160, the outlet port externally threadedportion 240 sealingly engaging an internally threaded portion providedwith the fluid-powered device entry port 160.

In an alternative embodiment, the outlet port externally threadedportion 240 sealingly engages a conveying hose conveying compressedfluid from the outlet port 114 to the fluid-powered device 102, notshown in FIG. 5.

Having described the features and assembly of the coupler assembly 100according to one embodiment of the present invention, its operation invarious embodiments will now be described, with references to FIGS. 6 to9.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the compressed fluid source104, compressed fluid providing hose 106, chamber 302 and fluid-powereddevice 102 are elements forming a fluid circuit when operativelyconnected together. The compressed fluid is conveyed from the compressedfluid source 104 to the inlet port 108 of the coupler assembly 100through the providing hose 106, from the inlet port 108 to the outletport 114 of the coupler assembly 100 through the chamber 302 and fromthe outlet port 114 to the fluid-powered device 102.

In an initial mode of operation shown in FIGS. 6A, 7A and 8A, thecompressed fluid providing hose 106 is connected to the inlet port 108of the coupler assembly 100. More specifically, the inlet connectingduct end nipple 404 concentrically engages the releasable member centralconduit 508, keeping the releasable member valve 510 in an open positionwherein the compressed fluid providing hose 106 and the chamber 302 arein fluid communication. Compressed fluid laterally enters the inletconnecting duct end nipple 404 from the releasable member 150 throughthe inlet connecting duct end nipple slot 406.

Still in an initial mode of operation shown in FIGS. 6A, 7A and 8A, thecompressed fluid source 104, not shown in FIGS. 6A, 7A and 8A, isactivated, providing compressed fluid throughout the previouslydescribed fluid circuit and urging the movement of the compressed fluidfrom the providing hose 106 to the fluid-powered device 102, not shownin FIGS. 6A, 7A and 8A, through the chamber 302 of the coupler assembly100.

Still in an initial mode of operation, the fluid control mechanism 120and pressure relief mechanism 124 are both in a closed position, thefluid control piston head external lateral surface 427 and the pressurerelief piston head external surface 451 resting respectively on thefluid control channel conical end cavity inner lateral surface 319 andthe pressure relief channel conical end cavity inner lateral surface337.

Now referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the operation of the fluid controlmechanism 120 will be detailed, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention.

In a fully-closed position, the fluid control piston 424 acts as a plugto the fluid control conical end cavity communicating hole 320 andprevents movement of compressed fluid therethrough, as shown on FIG. 6A.Since the fluid control channel 312 and gauge port communicating channel304 are no longer in fluid communication, the fluid circuit is dividedinto an upstream fluid circuit comprising the compressed fluid source104, not shown in FIG. 6A, the compressed fluid providing hose 106, theinlet port 108, the inlet channel 322 and the fluid control channel 312and a downstream fluid circuit comprising the gauge port communicatingchannel 304, the pressure relief channel 330, the outlet portcommunicating channel 360 and the fluid-powered device 102, not shown inFIG. 6A.

When the fluid control knob 122 is rotated counter-clockwise, the fluidcontrol mechanism 120 is moved from a fully-closed position to apartially-opened position, as shown on FIG. 6B. An opening 600 iscreated around the fluid control piston head 426, providing fluidcommunication between the upstream and downstream fluid circuits.However, the flow of compressed fluid available through the downstreamfluid circuit is restricted by the fluid control piston head 426 stillpartially plugging the fluid control conical end cavity communicatinghole 320.

In an alternative embodiment, the movement of the fluid controlmechanism 120 from a fully-closed position to a partially-openedposition or fully-opened position is achieved by a clockwise rotation ofthe fluid control knob 122 and the movement of the fluid controlmechanism 120 from a partially-opened position or a fully-openedposition to a fully-closed position is achieved by a counter-clockwiserotation of the fluid control knob 122.

When the fluid control knob 122 is further rotated, the opening 600 isgradually enlarged as the fluid control piston head 426 is moved awayfrom the fluid control conical end cavity communicating hole 320,enabling a higher flow of compressed fluid to be available through thedownstream fluid circuit.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that in an embodimentwherein the movement of the fluid control mechanism 120 from afully-closed position to a partially-opened position is achieved by aclockwise rotation of the fluid control knob 122, the enlargement of theopening 600 is further achieved by a clockwise rotation of the fluidcontrol knob 122.

Reciprocally, when the fluid control knob 122 is rotated in a second,opposite direction, the fluid control mechanism 120 is moved from apartially-opened or a fully-opened position towards a fully-closedposition wherein fluid communication between the gauge portcommunicating channel 304 and the fluid control channel 312 isprevented.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 wherein the fluid-powered device 102is a paintball marker, a paintball player may want to adjust the flow ofcompressed fluid provided to his paintball marker from the compressedfluid source 104. A higher flow output of compressed fluid translatesinto a higher pressure output at the outlet port and will provide alonger trajectory to a paintball shot out of the paintball marker,enabling a player to hit targets at a much larger distance.

Inversely, a lower flow output of compressed fluid translates into alower pressure output at the outlet port and will provide a shortertrajectory to a paintball shot out of the paintball marker, enabling aplayer to direct paintballs in a short arced trajectory to hit targetsover obstacles.

Now referring to FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C, the operation of the pressurerelief mechanism 124 will be detailed, in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention.

In a fully-closed position, the pressure relief piston 448 acts as aplug to the pressure relief conical end cavity communicating hole 338and prevents movement of compressed fluid therethrough, as shown on FIG.7A.

When the pressure relief knob 126 is rotated in a first direction, thepressure relief mechanism 124 is moved from a fully-closed position toan opened position, as shown on FIG. 7B. An opening 700 is createdaround the pressure relief piston head 450, providing fluidcommunication between the chamber connecting elbow 342 and the pressurerelief channel 330 through the pressure relief conical end cavitycommunicating hole 338.

In an alternative embodiment, the movement of the pressure reliefmechanism 124 from a fully-closed position to an opened position isachieved by a clockwise rotation of the pressure relief knob 126 and themovement of the pressure relief mechanism 124 from an opened position toa fully-closed position is achieved by a counter-clockwise rotation ofthe pressure relief knob 126.

Now referring to FIG. 7C, an amount of compressed fluid then enters thepressure relief channel 330 from the chamber connecting elbow 342through the pressure relief conical end cavity communicating hole 338and travels out of the chamber 302 to an ambient environment wherein thecoupler assembly 100 is located through the pressure relief dischargeduct 340.

In an alternative embodiment, the amount of compressed fluid does nottravel from the chamber 302 to an ambient environment wherein thecoupler assembly 100 is located, but travels instead through thepressure relief discharge duct 340 into a compressed fluid recuperationcontainer such that the compressed fluid be reused or disposed of, thecompressed fluid recuperation container being in fluid communicationwith the pressure relief discharge duct 340.

Now referring back to FIG. 7B, as the pressure relief knob 126 isrotated in a second, opposite direction, the pressure relief mechanism124 is moved from an opened position towards a fully-closed positionwherein fluid communication between the chamber connecting elbow 342 andthe pressure relief channel 330 is prevented.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the usefulness ofthe pressure relief mechanism 124 is fully exploited when the pressurerelief mechanism 124 is activated while the fluid control mechanism 120is in a fully-closed position and an amount of pressure, created by anamount of compressed fluid being present inside the chamber 302, isbuilt-up inside the chamber 302.

A user first moves the fluid control mechanism 120 to a fully-closedposition, trapping an amount of compressed fluid in the downstream fluidcircuit comprising the gauge port communicating channel 304, thepressure relief channel 330, the outlet port communicating channel 360and the fluid-powered device 102, not shown in FIG. 7B.

Now referring to FIG. 7C, the user then moves the pressure reliefmechanism 124 to an opened position, releasing the trapped compressedfluid from the downstream fluid circuit through the pressure reliefdischarge duct 340.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 wherein the fluid-powered device 102is a paintball marker, a paintball player may want to disconnect thepaintball marker from the coupler assembly 100 after use, for storing ormaintenance purposes. The paintball player first moves the fluid controlmechanism 120 to a fully-closed position, and then moves the pressurerelief mechanism 124 to an opened position, releasing thereby an amountof pressure built-up inside the paintball marker. The paintball playermay now safely disconnect his paintball marker from the coupler assembly100.

Now referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the selective connection anddisconnection of the releasable member 150 from the coupler assembly 100will be detailed, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention.

As shown on FIG. 8A, when connected to the inlet connecting duct 230,the releasable member 150 provides fluid communication between thecompressed fluid providing hose 106 and the inlet channel 322 of thechamber 302 through the releasable member central conduit 508. The inletconnecting duct end nipple 404 concentrically engages the releasablemember central conduit 508, keeping the releasable member valve 510 inan open position. The inlet port swivel nut 232 securely engages thereleasable member externally threaded portion 506 to prevent leakage ofcompressed fluid from the releasable member central conduit 508.

Now referring to FIG. 8B, a user first disengages the inlet port swivelnut 232 from the releasable member externally threaded portion 506. Theuser then disengages the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 from thereleasable member central conduit 508 by moving the releasable member150 away from the inlet connecting duct 230.

As the inlet connecting duct end nipple 404 is disengaged from thereleasable member central conduit 466, the releasable member valve 510is no longer kept in an open position and moves to a closed position,preventing compressed fluid from traveling from the releasable member150 through the releasable member central conduit 508. A closed fluidcircuit comprising the compressed fluid source 104, not shown in FIG.8B, the compressed fluid providing hose 106 and the releasable member150 is now created.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the usefulness ofthe releasable member 150 is fully exploited when the releasable member150 is disconnected from the inlet connecting duct 230 while the fluidcontrol mechanism 120 is in a fully-closed position. In addition to theclosed fluid circuit comprising the compressed fluid source 104, thecompressed fluid providing hose 106 and the releasable member 150, adownstream fluid circuit comprising the gauge port communicating channel304, the pressure relief channel 330, the outlet port communicatingchannel 360 and the fluid-powered device 102 is now created.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 wherein the fluid-powered device 102comprises a paintball marker and further wherein the compressed fluidsource 104 comprises a compressed gas bottle, a paintball player maywant to disconnect the compressed gas bottle from the coupler assembly100 for maintenance or storage purposes or to refill the compressed gasbottle. The paintball player first moves the fluid control mechanism 120to a fully-closed position, and then disconnects the releasable member150 from the inlet connecting duct 230. The compressed gas bottle cannow be stored away, maintained or refilled while an amount of compressedfluid remains trapped in the downstream fluid circuit comprising thegauge port communicating channel 304, the pressure relief channel 330,the outlet port communicating channel 360 and the fluid-powered device102.

From this configuration, the paintball player may further want to storeaway the paintball marker. The paintball player moves the pressurerelief mechanism 124 to an opened position, releasing an amount ofcompressed fluid trapped in the downstream fluid circuit. The paintballplayer may now safely disconnect the paintball marker from the couplerassembly 100 and store away the paintball marker, the compressed gasbottle and the coupler assembly 100.

In an alternative embodiment, with references to FIG. 1, the compressedfluid source engaging end 172 of the compressed fluid providing hose 106is provided with a second check valve mechanism, not shown, sealinglymounted thereat. The second check valve mechanism, not shown, comprisesan open position wherein the compressed fluid source 104 and thecompressed fluid providing hose 106 are in fluid communication and aclosed position wherein fluid communication between the compressed fluidsource 104 and the compressed fluid providing hose 106 is prevented.

The second valve check mechanism, not shown, engages the compressedfluid source 104 such that the second check valve mechanism is in anopen position when the compressed fluid providing hose 106 is connectedto the compressed fluid source 104 and is in a closed position when thecompressed fluid providing hose 106 is disconnected from the compressedfluid source 104.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the second check valvemechanism, not shown, enables the disconnection of the compressed fluidproviding hose 106 from the compressed fluid source 104 without leakageof compressed fluid from the compressed fluid source engaging end 172 ofthe compressed fluid providing hose 106.

This embodiment would allow a user to disconnect the compressed fluidproviding hose 106 from the compressed fluid source 104 without leakageof compressed fluid from a fluid circuit comprising the compressed fluidproviding hose 106, the coupler assembly 100 and the fluid-powereddevice 102.

In a preferred embodiment, the compressed fluid providing hose 106comprises a compressed fluid source engaging releasable member, notshown, similar to the releasable member 150 of the coupler assembly 100,wherein the second check valve mechanism, not shown, is located. Thecompressed fluid source engaging releasable member, not shown, comprisesa first, externally threaded portion adapted for sealingly and removablyengaging the compressed fluid source 104 and a second, internallythreaded portion adapted for sealingly engaging an externally threadedportion, not shown, provided with the compressed fluid source engagingend 172 of the compressed fluid providing hose 106.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that in this embodiment,the compressed fluid providing hose 106 may be a hose known by theskilled addressee comprising two similar ends adapted for selectivelyengaging the releasable member 150 and the compressed fluid sourceengaging releasable member, not shown.

In an embodiment wherein the fluid-powered device 102 comprises apaintball marker and further wherein the compressed fluid source 104comprises a compressed gas bottle, the paintball player may disconnectthe compressed fluid providing hose 106 from the compressed gas bottlewithout leakage of compressed fluid from the compressed fluid sourceengaging end 172 while the fluid control mechanism 120 is in an openposition.

The paintball player may further disconnect the releasable member 150from the inlet connecting duct 230 without leakage of fluid from thereleasable member central conduit 508 while the fluid control mechanism120 is in a closed position, creating a closed fluid circuit comprisingthe compressed fluid providing hose 106.

This would enable the paintball player to disconnect the compressed gasbottle from the compressed fluid providing hose 106 for maintenance orstorage purposes or to refill the compressed gas bottle without any lossof compressed fluid from the compressed fluid providing hose 106.

An alternative embodiment of the present invention will now bedescribed, with references to FIG. 9A and 9B.

In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 9A, the outwardly curved leftface 206 is further provided with a pressure limiting port 900 locatedabove the pressure relief mechanism 124 and vertically alignedtherewith. The pressure limiting port 900 is provided for sealinglyreceiving a pressure limiting mechanism 902 therein.

The purpose of the pressure limiting mechanism 902 is to prevent anamount of pressure, created by an amount of compressed fluid present inthe chamber 302, from exceeding a predetermined amount of pressure. Inits initial position, the pressure limiting mechanism 902 is designed toact as a plug of the pressure limiting port 900 when the amount ofpressure inside the chamber 302 is below a predetermined amount ofpressure.

As shown in FIG. 9B, the pressure limiting mechanism 902 is furtherdesigned to move to an activated position, allowing the compressed fluidto travel outwardly from the chamber 302 through the pressure limitingport 900 when the amount of pressure inside the chamber 302 is above apredetermined amount of pressure.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the pressure limitingmechanism 902 comprises a bursting disc set to rupture at an amount ofpressure inside the chamber 302 equal to 1000 psi. The bursting disc isa non-reversible mechanism and must be replaced once it has beenactivated.

In an alternative embodiment, the pressure limiting mechanism 902comprises a reversible pressure relief valve which may be reset to itsinitial position after activation.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the main benefit ofthe present invention is the combination of multiple features into onecompact coupler assembly 100 and is especially useful when used as acoupling of a paintball marker and a compressed gas bottle. The couplerassembly 100 provides a paintball player with means to adjust thetrajectory of a paintball fired from the paintball marker using thefluid control mechanism 120, means to safely disconnect the paintballmarker from the coupler assembly 100 with a combined use of the fluidcontrol mechanism 120 and the pressure relief mechanism 124 and means tosafely disconnect the compressed gas bottle from the coupler assembly100 with a combined use of the fluid control mechanism 120 and thereleasable member 150.

Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the coupler assembly herebydescribed is simple enough to be easily manufactured using basicmanufacturing techniques known to the addressee such as milling,turning, tapping, welding, gluing and the like. Additionally, as thefluid control mechanism 120, the pressure relief mechanism 124 and thereleasable member 150 are provided as detachable parts from the hollowcoupling body 200, they can easily replaced by similar parts in case ofmalfunction, damage or normal wear of the parts.

Although the above description relates to a specific preferredembodiment as presently contemplated by the inventor, it will beunderstood that the invention in its broad aspect includes mechanicaland functional equivalents of the elements described herein.

1. A coupler assembly for dispensing fluid from a compressed fluidsource, the coupler assembly comprising: a chamber; an inlet port, saidinlet port comprising a releasable member to be connected to a hoseoriginating from a compressed fluid source, said releasable membercomprising a valve, said inlet port further comprising a receivingmember for receiving the releasable member, the receiving member beingin fluid communication with the chamber; an outlet port in fluidcommunication with the chamber; and a fluid control mechanismoperatively coupled to the chamber for controlling an amount of fluiddispensed from the inlet port to the outlet port.
 2. The couplerassembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein said fluid control mechanismcomprises a fluid control piston selectively moving between a closedposition wherein dispensing of fluid from the inlet port to the outletport is prevented and an open position wherein fluid is dispensed fromthe inlet port to the outlet port.
 3. The coupler assembly as claimed inclaim 1, wherein said fluid control mechanism is operated manually usinga fluid control knob.
 4. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 1,wherein said fluid control mechanism is operated using actuation meansoperatively connected thereto, said automated actuation means beingselected from a group consisting of an electric actuator, a pneumaticactuator and a hydraulic actuator.
 5. The coupler assembly as claimed inclaim 1 further comprising a pressure relief mechanism to selectivelyevacuate, from said chamber, an amount of pressure created by a anamount of compressed fluid therein, said pressure relief mechanism beingoperatively coupled to said chamber.
 6. The coupler assembly as claimedin claim 5, wherein said pressure relief mechanism comprises a pressurerelief piston selectively moving between a closed position whereinevacuation of an amount of pressure from said chamber is prevented andan open position wherein an amount of pressure is evacuated from saidchamber.
 7. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein saidpressure relief mechanism is operated manually using a pressure reliefknob.
 8. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein saidpressure relief mechanism is operatively connected to actuation meansoperatively connected thereto, said actuation means being selected froma group consisting of an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator and ahydraulic actuator.
 9. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 1,wherein said valve comprises a spring-loaded check valve.
 10. Thecoupler assembly as claimed in claim 9, wherein said receiving membercomprises an inlet connecting duct provided with an inlet connectingduct end nipple concentrically and outwardly extending therefrom foractivating said spring-loaded check valve.
 11. The coupler assembly asclaimed in claim 10, wherein said inlet connecting duct nipple isaxially centered on said inlet connecting duct.
 12. The coupler assemblyas claimed in claim 10, wherein said receiving member comprises an inletport swivel nut concentrically mounted on said inlet connecting duct.13. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 12, wherein said inlet portswivel nut has a knurled outer surface.
 14. The coupler assembly asclaimed in claim 1 further comprising a pressure gauge port forreceiving a pressure gauge therein, said pressure gauge port being influid communication with said chamber.
 15. The coupler assembly asclaimed in claim 15 further comprising said pressure gauge mounted insaid gauge port.
 16. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 1 furthercomprising a pressure limiting mechanism operatively coupled to saidchamber for preventing an amount of pressure, created by an amount ofcompressed fluid inside said chamber, from exceeding a predeterminedamount of pressure.
 17. The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 16,wherein said pressure limiting mechanism comprises a bursting disc. 18.The coupler assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein said outlet portdelivers compressed fluid to a fluid-powered device.
 19. The couplerassembly as claimed in claim 18, wherein said fluid-powered devicecomprises a paintball marker.
 20. The coupler assembly as claimed inclaim 1, wherein said hose further comprises a check valve mechanismlocated at a compressed fluid source engaging end thereof, saidcompressed fluid source engaging end sealingly and removably engagingsaid compressed fluid source, said check valve mechanism comprising anopen position wherein said compressed fluid source and said hose are influid communication and a closed position wherein fluid communicationbetween said compressed fluid source and said hose is prevented.
 21. Thecoupler assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein said coupler assembly ismanufactured from a rigid material selected from a list comprisingaluminum, stainless steel, titanium, magnesium, brass, cast iron, PVCand ABS.